In the landscape of global education, standardized testing has often been heralded as the benchmark for excellence. Yet, this metric, especially prevalent in the educational systems of the Global South, is increasingly criticized for its limitations and commercial exploitation. Rather than equating high test scores with genuine learning, there's a growing realization that this approach might actually detract from educational quality. This article delves into the profound issues associated with standardized testing, critiques the involvement of big educational companies, and offers hopeful solutions to reshape the future of international education.

The global EdTech industry is replete with mission statements promising to make the world a better place through education. Yet, the reality often starkly contrasts with these lofty ideals. The industry predominantly serves the wealthiest 1% of schools, driven by profit motives that neglect the vast majority of the global student population. This article calls for a deep reflection on our mission and vision, urging EdTech companies to realign their actions to serve a broader and more inclusive audience. Using Urban Green Education as the central provider, with Lincoln Learning Solutions and Agilix Labs as partners, we explore how a mission-driven approach can create lasting and impactful change.

99% of the global #EdTech industry exists to serve only the rich schools or 1% of the global market. Many people in this industry make very comfortable salaries (you may be one of them) and the investors do quite well... but, what if? What if we tried to do just a bit better? Imagine the good we could do...

Imagine a world where every child, regardless of where they were born, had access to the same high-quality education. A world where economic birthright did not determine one's educational opportunities, and where the riches of knowledge and resources were shared equitably across the globe. What if we truly cared about the 99% of schools in the Global South that are currently excluded from participating in the modern educational world due to poverty? Here's how much better our world could be if we embraced this inclusive vision.

By incorporating these aspects of sustainability into science education, students can develop a deeper understanding of the scientific principles governing our environment and gain the skills necessary to contribute to sustainable solutions. This approach fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a sense of responsibility towards the planet.

Connecting a school in a more affluent area with a less fortunate school in the Global South can profoundly impact students, especially in developing empathy and a broader worldview. Here are several strategies that schools can employ to facilitate this transformation:

In the vast, profit-driven landscape of the global EdTech industry, the human side of education technology is often overshadowed by the pursuit of financial gain. However, companies that prioritize ethical behavior, kindness, and a mission-driven approach are more likely to evoke true change in education. This article explores the power of these principles, emphasizing the importance of believing in teachers and truly serving students. Lincoln Learning Solutions exemplifies these values, demonstrating that being a true partner in education can lead to meaningful and lasting impact.

In the global landscape of education, significant disparities often exist between the compensation and resources allocated to expatriate teachers compared to their local counterparts. This financial imbalance not only carries substantial opportunity costs but also raises serious moral questions and issues of personal humiliation for local educators. These disparities need urgent reassessment to foster a fairer, more effective, and dignified educational system.

By weaving sustainability into social science education, students can develop a nuanced understanding of how different aspects of society interact with and impact the environment. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with the analytical skills necessary to address complex real-world problems and fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment to make a difference.

Integrating sustainability into a high school mathematics curriculum can greatly enrich the educational experience, making abstract math concepts more relevant and engaging through real-world applications. Here are some ways to effectively incorporate sustainability topics into high school math classes:

Incorporating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into a school curriculum offers substantial value, especially in the holistic development of children. Here’s how integrating these goals can enrich education and foster comprehensive growth:

Educators must immerse themselves in the local culture, traditions, and social norms. This understanding helps in delivering lessons that are relevant and respectful of the students' background. Avoid Imposing Values: Instead of imposing their own cultural values, teachers should appreciate and integrate the local values into their teaching methods.

It's great that you work with rich kids at a rich school in a former colonial country. We just want us all to talk about the fact that 99% of the students in that country will never know about your fancy, expensive curriculum, testing, and certificates...

The international EdTech industry is replete with mission statements promising to make the world a better place through education. Yet, the reality often starkly contrasts with these lofty ideals. The industry predominantly serves the wealthiest 1% of schools, driven by profit motives that neglect the vast majority of students, particularly those in the Global South. At Urban Green Education (UGE), we believe it is time for a paradigm shift. By investing in local teachers and providing them with the necessary tools, we can create a more equitable and effective global education system. This article explores how UGE, in partnership with Lincoln Learning Solutions and Agilix Labs, is leading this change and how the EdTech industry can realign its actions with its mission to serve all students.

By incorporating sustainability into literature and composition classes, educators can foster empathy, critical thinking, and a deepened appreciation for both the environment and the power of literature to reflect and influence societal values. This approach not only enriches students’ academic experience but also empowers them to become more thoughtful and informed citizens.

Colonialism often sought to suppress and marginalize indigenous cultures and literature, replacing them with those of the colonizers. By emphasizing the rich literary history of these nations, educators can help reclaim and celebrate the unique cultural identities that were threatened. This process of rediscovery and reaffirmation aids in preserving languages, traditions, and stories that form the bedrock of a society’s heritage.

Giving wealthy students at wealthy international schools even more modern advantages does little to serve the common good of the world. Instead, it perpetuates and expands a market that primarily enriches education and #EdTech companies in the West. This market-driven approach to education often prioritizes profit over genuine learning and equity, creating a cycle where resources are continuously funneled towards those who already have access to ample educational opportunities.

Imagine incorporating a course titled "The Power of Taking Care and Giving Care" into the curriculum could indeed foster a profound impact on students' understanding and practice of care in various dimensions—personal, social, and environmental. Here’s a detailed outline of how such a class could be structured and what it might encompass:

Imagine a world where every child in the urban slums of the globe learned to read. The transformative power of literacy could unlock unprecedented opportunities and drive substantial socio-economic progress. Here’s an exploration of the profound impacts this could have:

As AI continues to shape our world, the human skills of reading and speaking, honed through a liberal arts education, will become even more critical. For young students in the Global South, embracing liberal arts education can open up unprecedented opportunities, driving personal, social, and economic transformation. It is time to recognize and invest in the potential of liberal arts to create a brighter, more equitable future for all.

By fostering critical thinking, empathy, creativity, and global awareness, liberal arts education equips students with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the modern world and make meaningful contributions to their communities. In doing so, it not only transforms individual lives but also empowers entire communities, fostering a cycle of positive change and sustainable development. Let us champion the value of liberal arts education and ensure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to realize their full potential.

Opening the door to blended learning in a high school in the Global South, especially in one lacking textbooks and other educational materials, can profoundly impact students' lives by enhancing access, engagement, and learning outcomes in critical subjects like algebra, calculus, biology, physics, and chemistry. Here's how this approach can make a significant difference: